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Tackling An FKT? You are Eligible For A Grand And Free Gear

Shoot for the record books with a blazing thru-hike or trail run, and also you might land a cool $1,000 and some free tools. All you need to do is attempt.

Fastest Known Times (FKTs) come in all shapes and sizes: mountain rises, long-distance hikes, even trans Atlantic SUP crossings. But while guys and the women who own those titles are gifted, disciplined athletes, one can be attempted by anybody.

And a couple supplies brands are sweetening the deal for anyone to attempt for a FKT of their own. GU Energy Labs, La Sportiva, and ultimate Direction will award four $1,000 grants and any essential gear qualifying that is to FKT proposals.

Equipment awards and the grants are open to anyone who completes the internet application. The deadline to enter is April 9th, and winners will be announced th.

The effort can be anything, but must include at least 50 percent running or hiking. And definitely no motorized transport.

There’ll be one award that is male one female award, and two left open. Applicants must reside in North America, but the FKT can take place anywhere on Earth.

Greatest Direction makes best hydration pack and running vests, La Sportiva fabricates hiking and running footwear, and Gu offers nutrition and energy gels. Winners don’t need to use some of the patrons’ gear on the effort, but it’s a sweet haul just the same.

Times should be verified by a third party and GPS.

Last year saw two major FKT successes.

The two crown jewels of North American trails both saw record breaking milestones.

On the left shore, a relatively unknown dentist from Belgium, Karel Sabbe, defeated the 2,700-mile Pacific Crest Trail with a 52-day, 8-hour, 25-minute thru-hike.

As FKT attempts have grown in popularity, so too has controversy. Until lately, FKTs were largely based on the honor system and a low burden of proof. However, with assistance from GPS and tracking technology, enthusiasts scrutinize and publicize FKT claims. This provides popularity and more legality for claims.

If you feel up to the challenge and have a notion, take a look at the program page to find out more.